A 20-YEAR-OLD Runcorn man was the victim of a vicious street robbery on Saturday night when a gang of three youths set upon him, threatening serious injury and punching him to the body and face.

The youths then made off with a black leather wallet and a Playstation 2 game called B17 Flying Fortress.

The attack, which happened at 10pm on Merlin Close, Castlefields, was interrupted by a passer-by who shouted at the offenders, scaring them off.

Police are now appealing to this person to come forward.

The first attacker is described as being a white male aged between 15 and 18, 5ft 8in and of stocky build, with light brown or blonde hair. He is said to have been wearing a white hooded top with a zipper pulled up and black tracksuit bottoms.

The victim remembers this offender as having a local or Merseyside accent.

The second attacker was described as a white male, 15-18 years old, about 5ft 5in, of slim build with short, brown cropped hair.

He was said to be wearing a blue fleece and dark blue tracksuit bottoms and was riding a BMX bike. He also had a local or Merseyside accent.

The third boy was also described as a white male aged 15-18, also about 5ft 5in and of slim to medium build.

Anyone who was on or around Merlin Close at the time of the incident is asked to contact PCs Jason Hill or Christine Stubbs on 01244 613914. Information may also be left anonymously on 0800 555 111.